Scotmid trials food-to-go in-store

Scottish co-operative Scotmid has opened its first food-to-go provision at Ratho Station near Edinburgh as the first of three trial stores.

Arlene Stuart from the Forth One breakfast show officially opened The Kitchen, which offers fresh food with both ‘grab and go’ and ‘made to order’ sandwiches available. Other options include porridge, salad pots as well as hot meals and pizzas.

The Breadwinner Bakery bakes many of the artisan breads and rolls for the filled sandwiches and rolls on offer and Stephens the Baker supplies the group with pies and savouries.

The Breadwinner Bakery has been supplying to the convenience store chain for two years, in 15 different stores, but expects to add 30 more across Scotland through the year.

Stephen Brown, Scotmid’s bakery and local sourcing manager, said: “Following extensive customer research on further provisions that could be offered in-store, the feedback we received overwhelmingly requested a range of meal offerings available throughout the day, from breakfast through to evening meals.

“Most importantly, customers asked us to ensure they could get served and pay as quickly as possible and therefore we have installed a dedicated food-to-go section, distinct from the standard counter area.

“The product range offers daily specials to keep the range interesting for customers and will evolve with the seasonality of the products.”

Stuart said: “The Kitchen is a wonderful idea and will provide extra value for customers and a way for them to enjoy really healthy and appetising produce from well-known local suppliers which is freshly prepared, allowing them to grab food on the go.”

Further trial sites at the Carrick Knowe and Kingsknowe Scotmid co-operative stores will open in the next five weeks.